Coventry City’s trip to Chesterfield gave fans the opportunity to see their latest signing Kevin Foley in action for the first time.

The 32-year-old made his debut after signing for the Sky Blues on a short-term deal from Charlton Athletic until the end of the season.

The full-back was steady enough in his opening performance, doing all the basics asked of him although at times his lack of match fitness showed.

Foley last played a full 90 minutes over a month ago at the start of December in an FA Cup second round replay against MK Dons, which his side lost 3-1 after extra-time.

His final appearance for the Addicks was an eight-minute cameo as his side put four past Bristol Rovers at the start of January.

It ended what was a relatively successful spell for Foley who featured on twenty occasions for the London based club.

However, his display at the Proact highlights that it may take the Luton-born defender a few games to get back up to speed before we see the best of him as the Sky Blues scrap for League One survival.

Coventry City's Kevin Foley

What’s in his locker?

Going on first impressions Foley appears to be what many would describe as steady. Aside from a dreadful first pass straight to the opposition, he released the ball when necessary and never played himself or others into any danger, but at the same time did not do anything particularly eye-catching.

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A player who can do all the basics right is what the Sky Blues are crying out for in manager Russell Slade’s new look back four. With over 350 professional games under his belt, he’ll add much-needed experience to a young side that is desperate for leadership from a few older heads in their quest for survival.

“Kevin is a top professional, and will be a calming and mature influence on the rest of the squad.

“He’s capable of moving the ball quickly, and is intelligent in his play. I’m pleased to have such an experienced player join the football club.”

Kevin Foley in his Wolverhampton Wanderers days

What’s to work on?

Foley’s fitness is slightly lacking and that will be what is letting him down the most. In a similar situation to recent signings Nathan Clarke and Stuart Beavon, it may take the former Republic of Ireland international a few games to get himself up to speed and back to the peak of his fitness and match sharpness. Once that improves he is expected to become an integral part of the Sky Blues defence.

What is his best position?

Primarily a right-sided full-back, Foley can also operate from the left-hand side if necessary and as a holding midfielder, offering some much-needed versatility in what is a threadbare squad. Having held down his place in a Premier League side for Wolves in 2009 until their relegation three years later, Foley has demonstrated his credentials as a player in whom managers can have faith. Why else would Slade sign the 32-year-old him for a second time?

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Conclusion

Overall it’s hard to make a comprehensive judgement on Foley after one game, especially as he did not see out the 90 minutes on his debut at the Proact Stadium. However, his past achievements suggest that City have got a solid and seasoned pro with plenty of potential to be a good signing for the Sky Blues.

Another encouraging sign is that he featured so heavily for a fellow League One side – currently 11th in the table – making 20 appearances for the Addicks this term.

Back in the day: Kevin Foley closes in on David McNamee in a match between City and Luton Town.

Some might question why, if he was a regular at Athletic earlier in the campaign, his contract was not extended at The Valley? The simple answer is that new boss Karl Robinson clearly doesn’t fancy him. But Slade knows the player inside out and has faith that he’ll do a decent job for him.